Who are the guardians of the ninth circle of Hell?

In Dante's "Inferno," the guardians of the ninth circle of Hell are the giants. This circle, known as Cocytus, serves as the frozen lake encompassing the most treacherous sinners, namely those who betrayed their benefactors. The giants, including notable figures from mythology such as Nimrod and Antaeus, exemplify immense size and strength. They serve as both physical representations of the weight of treachery and as sentries guarding the various zones of this icy realm. Their presence underscores the theme of betrayal and the harsh consequences that befall those who commit such sins.

The serpents, angels, and Furies are associated with different areas and themes in "Inferno," but they do not guard the ninth circle. The serpents are more commonly found in the eighth circle, while the Furies appear in connection with the punishments for the sins of violence and wrath. Angels are generally associated with Heaven and not the guardianship of Hell’s circles. Hence, the choice of giants as the guardians highlights Dante's depiction of the gravitas of treachery and the severity of punishment in this final circle.